Released 30/03/2023
The ACT Government is taking steps to provide Canberrans with greater protections when accessing health services in the ACT.
The Human Rights Commission Amendment Bill 2023 (National Code of Conduct for Health Workers), introduced in the Legislative Assembly today, amends the Human Rights Commission Act 2005 to enable the implementation of the National Code of Conduct for Health Care Workers.
The National Code sets a minimum standard of conduct and practice for health workers who are either not already registered under the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme (NRAS) or who provide services unrelated to their registration.
Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the National Code aims to provide consumers with the confidence they are receiving healthcare guided by safe and ethical practice.
“While the vast majority of healthcare workers practice in a safe, competent and ethical manner, it is important to have a robust set of standards and regulations in place to protect consumers and the wider community.
“This National Code of Conduct will move to address gaps in the professional regulation, skills and credentialling of healthcare workers,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.
Examples of health occupations covered by the National Code include allied health assistants, herbalists, counsellors, massage therapists, alternative medicine practitioners, dental technicians and assistants, speech pathologists, social workers, dietitians and pharmacy assistants.
With the implementation of the National Code, consumers will have more options for resolving disputes with healthcare workers and seeing appropriate action taken.
The ACT Health Services Commissioner will investigate complaints and take action in circumstances where the community may be put at risk. This includes the power to act against a healthcare worker who has had prohibition orders placed on them in another state or territory and is now operating in the ACT.
“The ACT Government consulted with consumer and worker representatives, peak bodies and the Health Services Commissioner in developing the Bill to implement the National Code.
“It is expected the National Code of Conduct will come into effect six months after legislation has passed. This allows time for government and non-government healthcare providers to prepare for the change and understand their obligations,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.
The proposed amendments to the Human Rights Commission Act 2005 brings the ACT into alignment with New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and Queensland, who have already implemented the National Conduct for Health Care Workers.
“These changes will protect the community, align the ACT with other jurisdictions, and ensure that Canberrans can have greater confidence when accessing health services,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.
- Statement ends -
Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases